Ex-DOH chief Alfredo Bengzon passes away

Former Health secretary and Ramon Magsaysay awardee Alfredo Rafael Antonio Bengzon has passed away, the Department of Health (DOH) and the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health confirmed. He was 90.

In a Facebook post, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa mourned Bengzon’s death and honored his contributions to public health. 

“Rest in Peace Former Sec of Health Alfredo Rafael Antonio Bengzon,” Herbosa said, noting the late health chief’s efforts to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for Filipinos.

Bengzon served as Health secretary from 1986 to 1992 under then President Corazon Aquino, during a period of sweeping reforms following the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Among his most significant contributions was championing the Generic Drugs Law, which required the use of generic names in prescribing medicines. The policy helped bring down drug prices and increased the market share of generic medicines to 64%.

He also pushed for wider access to family planning services, advocating reproductive health initiatives despite opposition from religious groups.

During his six-year tenure, Bengzon led a reorganization of the DOH aimed at curbing corrupt practices and strengthening public health education.

In 1991, he received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service for his leadership and reform efforts in government service.

Beyond public office, Bengzon was the founding dean of the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health.

“The ASMPH community mourns the passing of our Founding Dean, Dr. Alfredo Rafael Antonio Bengzon. Through his vision and leadership, ASMPH was established and generations of physicians were formed in service of the Filipino people. His legacy will continue to guide our community,” the school said in a statement.

Bengzon also served as president and chief executive officer of The Medical City.

Further details, including funeral arrangements, have yet to be announced. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News